

Neuro Navigators: A Medbridge Podcast
Medbridge
Neuro Navigators is a Medbridge podcast breaking down challenging clinical questions in neurologic and geriatric rehabilitation and equipping physical therapy and occupational therapy practitioners with practical takeaways. To get continuing education credit for each episode and bonus resources, search for the episodes on medbridge.com and then complete the accompanying quiz. If you enjoy the show, please hit the follow button!
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IG: https://www.instagram.com/medbridgeteam/
LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/medbridge/
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 13, 2026 • 58min
Neuro Navigators Episode 25: The Power of Strategy: How Do We Optimize Independence?
In this episode, host J.J. Mowder-Tinney sits down with Dr. Elizabeth Skidmore, PhD, OTR/L, FACRM, FAOTA, to challenge how we view the "silent epidemic" of cognitive impairments in rehabilitation. They explore moving from traditional "drill and repeat" exercises to Strategy Training. This metacognitive approach helps clients lead their recovery through active learning. You’ll discover how the START framework uncovers subtle executive function deficits, supporting greater independence for even complex patients. Learn how slowing down your clinical approach can accelerate patients’ return to meaningful community participation.Addendum:This episode discusses Strategy Training for individuals who can learn new skills and generalize them, such as people with acquired brain injury. Dr. Skidmore notes that Strategy Training is not suitable for individuals with moderate to severe dementia or significant clinical apathy. For these populations, clinicians should instead focus on errorless learning and habit training to help maintain structured routines.Learning OutcomesAnalyze the evidence around attention and executive function after acquired brain injuryApply evidence-based, practical strategies to actionably improve rehabilitation outcomes for this populationSolve patient case scenarios focused on achieving community independence and participation after acquired brain injuryTimestamps(00:00:00) Welcome(00:00:05) Introduction to cognitive rehabilitation(00:02:48) Understanding cognitive impairments(00:06:00) Screening and assessment tools(00:08:50) Communicating cognitive changes(00:11:53) Interventions for cognitive impairments(00:15:10) Metacognitive strategies in therapy(00:18:00) Guided discovery in practice(00:20:59) Addressing attention and executive function(00:23:45) Real-life application of strategies(00:28:00) Building client independence(00:33:50) Engaging family in therapy(00:45:30) Impactful takeaways for therapists(00:55:18) Conclusion and reflectionsNeuro Navigators is brought to you by Medbridge. If you’d like to earn continuing education credit for listening to this episode and access bonus takeaway handouts, log in to your Medbridge account and navigate to the course where you’ll find accreditation details. If applicable, complete the post-course assessment and survey to be eligible for credit. The takeaway handout on Medbridge gives you the key points mentioned in this episode, along with additional resources you can implement into your practice right away.To hear more episodes of Neuro Naviagators, visit https://www.medbridge.com/neuro-navigatorsIf you’d like to subscribe to Medbridge, visit https://www.medbridge.com/pricing/IG: https://www.instagram.com/medbridgeteam/

Feb 13, 2026 • 56min
Neuro Navigators Episode 24: Can Motor Performance Be Driven By Cognition? The CO-OP Approach
Helene Polatajko, PhD, OT(C), FCAOT, FCAHS, LLD(h.c.), OC, a renowned occupational therapist, researcher, and co-developer of the CO-OP Approach, joins host J.J. Mowder-Tinney for a thought-provoking conversation on how cognition can drive motor performance. Together, they explore the power of guided discovery, client-centered goals, and the surprising role of self-generated strategies in rehabilitation. From dancing to dressing to stroke recovery, you’ll hear how thinking differently about movement can change what your patients are capable of. Tune in to reframe your clinical lens and get inspired to incorporate “goal-plan-do-check” into your own sessions.Learning ObjectivesAnalyze the evidence around CO-OP approaches to meaningful activities across pediatric and adult populationsApply evidence-based, practical strategies to actionably address challenges in occupationalSolve patient case scenarios involving clients with coordination or motor learning impairmentTimestamps(00:00:00) Welcome(00:00:05) Introduction to cognition and motor-based performance(00:01:20) Dr. Polatajko's background and journey in occupational therapy(00:05:30) The self-driving car(00:12:40) Cognitive orientation to daily occupational performance (CO-OP)(00:14:35) Dynamic performance analysis(00:22:15) Guided discovery(00:30:24) Generalization and transfer of skills(00:34:14) Goal-plan-do-check(00:53:25) Key takeaways and conclusionNeuro Navigators is brought to you by Medbridge. If you’d like to earn continuing education credit for listening to this episode and access bonus takeaway handouts, log in to your Medbridge account and navigate to the course where you’ll find accreditation details. If applicable, complete the post-course assessment and survey to be eligible for credit. The takeaway handout on Medbridge gives you the key points mentioned in this episode, along with additional resources you can implement into your practice right away.To hear more episodes of Neuro Naviagators, visit https://www.medbridge.com/neuro-navigatorsIf you’d like to subscribe to Medbridge, visit https://www.medbridge.com/pricing/IG: https://www.instagram.com/medbridgeteam/

Jan 15, 2026 • 58min
Neuro Navigators Episode 23: FND in Practice: What Myths Are Holding Us Back?
Leading neurorehabilitation expert Julie Hershberg, PT, DPT, NCS, joins host J.J. Mowder-Tinney, PT, PhD, to dismantle the persistent myths and "weird" clinician behaviors that often hinder the treatment of functional neurological disorder (FND). Together, they bridge the gap between outdated assumptions and current neuroscience, exploring the predictive brain model and the high prevalence of comorbid conditions. You will learn why practitioners should shift from a diagnosis of exclusion to a positive clinical framework that prioritizes building trust and addressing underlying sensory processing difficulties. You will also gain actionable strategies to treat FND with the same clinical rigor and confidence as any other neurologic condition, ensuring your patients feel truly seen and supported.Learning ObjectivesAnalyze the evidence around functional neurological disorder (FND), including common myths, neurobiological mechanisms, and diagnostic clarityApply evidence-based, practical strategies to actionably address assessment and treatment planning for individuals with FND, including sensory, autonomic, and psychosocial factorsSolve patient case scenarios involving FND by using whole-person, trust-building approaches to guide interdisciplinary treatment and improve functional outcomesTimestamps(00:00:00) Welcome(00:00:05) Introduction and clinical training gaps(00:01:30) Guest background and professional evolution(00:03:37) Overcoming the stigma of "weird" therapy(00:08:30) Debunking common FND myths(00:10:10) Clinical diagnosis and neurological evidence(00:13:27) Reviewing current treatment research(00:16:30) Screening for comorbid conditions(00:18:10) Autonomic nervous system considerations(00:20:09) Integrating sensory and lifestyle factors(00:21:45) Patient triage and readiness for change(00:26:58) Acceptance of the brain-based model(00:29:04) Assessment priorities and heavy hitters(00:32:37) Practical sensory and autonomic interventions(00:35:45) Establishing radical trust with patients(00:37:46) Family education and environmental influence(00:39:55) Promoting patient advocacy and autonomy(00:46:10) Top three actionable takeaways(00:47:04) Case studies in holistic recovery(00:53:15) Creative adaptations in functional therapyNeuro Navigators is brought to you by Medbridge. If you’d like to earn continuing education credit for listening to this episode and access bonus takeaway handouts, log in to your Medbridge account and navigate to the course where you’ll find accreditation details. If applicable, complete the post-course assessment and survey to be eligible for credit. The takeaway handout on Medbridge gives you the key points mentioned in this episode, along with additional resources you can implement into your practice right away.To hear more episodes of Neuro Naviagators, visit https://www.medbridge.com/neuro-navigatorsIf you’d like to subscribe to Medbridge, visit https://www.medbridge.com/pricing/IG: https://www.instagram.com/medbridgeteam/

Dec 15, 2025 • 54min
Neuro Navigators Episode 22: Spatial Neglect in Practice: What Should Guide Your Approach?
Dana Aravich joins host J.J. Mowder-Tinney for a deep dive into one of rehab’s most perplexing challenges: spatial neglect. Drawing on her clinical experience and research, Dana and J.J. unpack how this complex attention disorder impacts function and why it’s so often mistaken for a visual field deficit. Together, they explore practical, evidence-informed strategies for assessment, intervention planning, and team-based decision-making. Whether you're confident or still uncertain in managing neglect, this episode offers new ways to think about what truly guides your approach.Learning ObjectivesAnalyze the evidence around the complexity and clinical implications of spatial neglect in individuals recovering from stroke and brain injuryApply evidence-based, practical, and actionable strategies to address the identification, evaluation, and tailored intervention planning for clients experiencing spatial neglectSolve patient case scenarios involving differential diagnosis and intervention planning for spatial neglect versus visual field deficits, incorporating contextual factors such as driving safety and functional independenceTimestamps(00:00:00) Welcome(00:00:05) Introduction(00:02:44) Understanding spatial neglect(00:04:36) Types of neglect(00:09:43) Evaluation challenges(00:10:40) Evidence-based assessment tools(00:15:40) The 292 assessment tools problem(00:22:21) Treatment complexity(00:24:30) Treatment strategies and research(00:26:25) Prism therapy and vision considerations(00:31:03) Screening and differential diagnosis(00:37:30) Observational insights and self-awareness(00:41:35) Self-reflection and chronic stages(00:44:32) Severe cases and poor arousal(00:47:48) Meaningful motivation(00:49:27) Family education and involvement(00:51:49) Key takeaways(00:52:55) Closing remarksNeuro Navigators is brought to you by Medbridge. If you’d like to earn continuing education credit for listening to this episode and access bonus takeaway handouts, log in to your Medbridge account and navigate to the course where you’ll find accreditation details. If applicable, complete the post-course assessment and survey to be eligible for credit. The takeaway handout on Medbridge gives you the key points mentioned in this episode, along with additional resources you can implement into your practice right away.To hear more episodes of Neuro Naviagators, visit https://www.medbridge.com/neuro-navigatorsIf you’d like to subscribe to Medbridge, visit https://www.medbridge.com/pricing/IG: https://www.instagram.com/medbridgeteam/

Nov 14, 2025 • 50min
Neuro Navigators Episode 21: Stroke Boot Camp: How Do We Keep Progress Going in Chronic Stroke?
Dr. Alison McKenzie, PT, DPT, PhD, FAPTA, a leading voice in neurorehabilitation and creator of Stroke Boot Camp, joins host J.J. Mowder-Tinney to explore how we can extend meaningful progress for people living with chronic stroke. Together, Alison and J.J. dive into the clinical reasoning, research, and real-world outcomes behind this high-intensity, interdisciplinary model. You’ll hear practical ideas to apply in your own setting, whether that’s a full boot camp or small-scale changes that shift the trajectory for your patients. Tune in to reimagine what’s possible beyond traditional rehab.Learning ObjectivesAnalyze the evidence around recommendations for optimal health management, wellness, and ongoing rehabilitation for individuals with chronic strokeApply evidence-based, practical strategies to actionably address the delivery of short-term, high-intensity, interdisciplinary rehabilitation and wellness for individuals with chronic strokeSolve patient case scenarios involving plateau or decline in function over time in individuals who are aging with chronic strokeTimestamps(00:00:00) Welcome(00:00:05) Introduction to stroke boot camp(00:01:36) The journey of Dr. Alison McKenzie(00:06:56) The importance of community and support(00:09:46) Research-driven approaches in stroke rehabilitation(00:12:25) Tailoring treatment for individual needs(00:14:25) Stroke boot camp overview(00:16:45) High-intensity training and its impact(00:19:37) Neural priming and its benefits(00:21:57) Measuring intensity and progress(00:28:49) Expanding the boot camp model(00:31:32) Engaging clinicians in community programs(00:34:58) Flexible approaches to community rehabilitation(00:39:15) Enhancing therapy through intensity and creativity(00:45:05) Fostering socialization in rehabilitation(00:47:20) Conclusion and future directionsNeuro Navigators is brought to you by Medbridge. If you’d like to earn continuing education credit for listening to this episode and access bonus takeaway handouts, log in to your Medbridge account and navigate to the course where you’ll find accreditation details. If applicable, complete the post-course assessment and survey to be eligible for credit. The takeaway handout on Medbridge gives you the key points mentioned in this episode, along with additional resources you can implement into your practice right away.To hear more episodes of Neuro Naviagators, visit https://www.medbridge.com/neuro-navigatorsIf you’d like to subscribe to Medbridge, visit https://www.medbridge.com/pricing/IG: https://www.instagram.com/medbridgeteam/

Oct 15, 2025 • 49min
Neuro Navigators Episode 20: Bridging Research and Practice: How Can You Implement Current Evidence?
Dr. Amy Yorke, PT, PhD, board-certified clinical specialist in neurology, joins host J.J. Mowder-Tinney for an energizing discussion on what it really takes to move evidence into practice. Together, they explore the everyday barriers rehab professionals face, such as time, resources, and habits, and offer practical strategies to help you implement evidence without losing clinical creativity. With examples from Amy’s own work in a student-led pro bono clinic, you’ll walk away inspired to start small, think critically, and share what you learn. If you’ve ever felt the tug between research and real life, this episode is for you.Learning ObjectivesAnalyze current evidence on knowledge translation in rehabilitation practiceApply practical, evidence-based strategies to bridge the research-to-practice gapImplement clinical practice guidelines through real-world case scenariosTimestamps(00:00:00) Welcome(00:00:05) Bridging research and practice(00:01:29) Amy’s journey into knowledge translation(00:04:12) The importance of evidence in practice(00:08:50) Challenges in implementing evidence-based practice(00:09:36) Adapting evidence to local contexts(00:10:35) The role of patient values in evidence-based practice(00:13:10) The human element in clinical practice(00:14:58) Overcoming barriers to change(00:17:19) Facilitators and barriers in knowledge translation(00:22:10) Creating a supportive environment for evidence use(00:24:50) Innovative podcast ideas for therapists(00:26:05) Bridging gaps in clinical practice guidelines(00:28:05) The role of learning health systems in rehab(00:31:17) Collaborative approaches in neuro rehab(00:33:10) Engaging patients in their recovery(00:37:08) Overcoming barriers to patient engagement(00:40:15) Action steps for clinicians(00:41:55) Real-world application of evidence-based practice(00:47:00) Fun wrap-up and superpower dreams:Neuro Navigators is brought to you by Medbridge. If you’d like to earn continuing education credit for listening to this episode and access bonus takeaway handouts, log in to your Medbridge account and navigate to the course where you’ll find accreditation details. If applicable, complete the post-course assessment and survey to be eligible for credit. The takeaway handout on Medbridge gives you the key points mentioned in this episode, along with additional resources you can implement into your practice right away.To hear more episodes of Neuro Naviagators, visit https://www.medbridge.com/neuro-navigatorsIf you’d like to subscribe to Medbridge, visit https://www.medbridge.com/pricing/IG: https://www.instagram.com/medbridgeteam/

Sep 16, 2025 • 58min
Neuro Navigators Episode 18: Exercise as Medicine: How Do We Apply PD-Specific Functional Training?
This episode explores how physical and occupational therapists can integrate Parkinson’s disease–specific functional training into everyday clinical practice. Host J.J. Mowder-Tinney is joined by Dr. Becky Farley, neuroscientist, physical therapist, and founder of Parkinson Wellness Recovery (PWR!), to discuss the science and art of applying exercise as medicine for people living with Parkinson’s disease. Together, they break down the core motor control building blocks—such as antigravity extension, weight shifting, axial mobility, and transitions—and demonstrate how these fundamentals can be retrained and progressed to improve real-world function. Listeners will learn practical strategies to make exercise goal-directed, challenging, and fun, while also addressing cognitive and emotional barriers that often limit mobility. Through case examples and clinical pearls, this conversation highlights how to design interventions that feel more like sport than therapy, empowering patients to move with greater ease and confidence. Ideal for PTs and OTs working in rehabilitation or community-based settings, this episode offers actionable insights you can bring directly to your practiceLearning ObjectivesAnalyze the fundamental motor control building blocks that support functional mobility training as a foundational intervention for people with Parkinson’s disease (PwPD)Apply evidence-informed strategies to target key motor control fundamentals when designing PD-specific functional mobility trainingSolve patient case scenarios to develop individualized plans of care that integrate PD-specific functional mobility training across rehabilitation and community settingsTimestamps(00:00:00) Welcome(00:01:09) Introduction to guest(00:04:20) The importance of functional mobility training(00:06:38) Understanding Parkinson’s symptoms and their impact(00:10:25) Core fundamentals of movement in therapy(00:14:50) Recapping fundamental building blocks of movement(00:25:20) Common impairments in Parkinson’s beyond rigidity and bradykinesia(00:28:55) Research insights on essential ingredients for rehabilitation(00:32:40) Defining FUN-ctional exercise(00:36:04) Practical examples of motor-cognitive challenges(00:41:43) Translating research into day-to-day clinical practice(00:43:07) Creative case example: turning and freezing of gait(00:49:22) Engaging care partners for home and community carryover(00:51:14) Three actionable clinical takeaways(00:54:30) Superpower question and closing thoughtsNeuro Navigators is brought to you by Medbridge. If you’d like to earn continuing education credit for listening to this episode and access bonus takeaway handouts, log in to your Medbridge account and navigate to the course where you’ll find accreditation details. If applicable, complete the post-course assessment and survey to be eligible for credit. The takeaway handout on Medbridge gives you the key points mentioned in this episode, along with additional resources you can implement into your practice right away.To hear more episodes of Neuro Naviagators, visit https://www.medbridge.com/neuro-navigatorsIf you’d like to subscribe to Medbridge, visit https://www.medbridge.com/pricing/IG: https://www.instagram.com/medbridgeteam/

Sep 16, 2025 • 1h 1min
Neuro Navigators Episode 19: Focal Dystonia: Can We Really Retrain the Brain?
Dr. Nancy Byl, a pioneer in neuroplasticity and expert in focal dystonia, joins host J.J. Mowder-Tinney for a dynamic conversation on how OTs and PTs can rethink assessment and intervention for this underrecognized movement disorder. J.J. brings curiosity and clinical insight as they explore the sensory origins of dystonia, surprising traits shared by many patients, and why behavioral retraining may hold more promise than you think. Along the way, Dr. Byl shares case examples, brain mapping data, and creative treatment strategies grounded in decades of experience. Tune in to discover how targeted sensory retraining—and a little outside-the-box thinking—may help retrain the brain.Learning ObjectivesAnalyze the evidence around the definition, diagnosis, and prevalence of focal dystonia (FD)Apply evidence-based, practical strategies to address the treatment of FD, grounded in principles of neuroplasticity and behavioral interventions, and to support engagement in meaningful occupationsSolve patient case scenarios involving FD while integrating current research, clinical reasoning, and potential directions for future investigationTimestamps(00:00:00) Welcome(00:01:05) Introduction to guest and focal dystonia research(00:06:56) Understanding focal dystonia in context(00:11:16) The impact of focal dystonia on lives(00:16:01) Personality traits and focal dystonia(00:18:35) Neuroscience insights into dystonia(00:24:39) Behavioral retraining and dystonia(00:28:18) Patient characteristics and outcomes(00:33:49) Assessment techniques for dystonia(00:46:08) Innovative treatment approaches(00:47:17) The role of behavioral training in recovery(00:49:46) Real-life retraining success stories and insightsNeuro Navigators is brought to you by Medbridge. If you’d like to earn continuing education credit for listening to this episode and access bonus takeaway handouts, log in to your Medbridge account and navigate to the course where you’ll find accreditation details. If applicable, complete the post-course assessment and survey to be eligible for credit. The takeaway handout on Medbridge gives you the key points mentioned in this episode, along with additional resources you can implement into your practice right away.To hear more episodes of Neuro Naviagators, visit https://www.medbridge.com/neuro-navigatorsIf you’d like to subscribe to Medbridge, visit https://www.medbridge.com/pricing/IG: https://www.instagram.com/medbridgeteam/

Jul 15, 2025 • 50min
Neuro Navigators Episode 17: Reactive Postural Control in OT/PT: Is It Time to Rethink Our Approach to Balance?
Dr. Nora Fritz, PhD, PT, DPT, NCS, an expert in postural control and fall risk in people with multiple sclerosis, joins host J.J. Mowder-Tinney for a deep dive into reactive balance—why it matters, how it’s measured, and what we can do about it. J.J. and Nora explore the latest research around sensory reweighting, backward walking, and compensatory stepping, connecting the science to real-world clinical applications across patient populations. Together, they discuss strategies to support your clients’ safety and confidence through tailored interventions and meaningful conversations. Whether you’re looking to sharpen your assessment approach or rethink fall prevention strategies, this episode offers insights you won’t want to miss.Learning ObjectivesAnalyze the evidence around reactive postural control in persons with MSApply evidence-based, practical strategies to actionably address reactive balance control in persons with MSIncorporate measures of psychological functioning that may impact goal setting for reactive postural control in persons with MSTimestamps(00:00:00) Welcome(00:00:47) Introduction to reactive balance and multiple sclerosis (MS)(00:03:04) Understanding reactive balance mechanisms(00:06:50) Research insights on backward walking(00:11:55) Neural control of reactive balance(00:17:45) Applications across different diagnoses(00:20:57) Practical examples in therapy sessions(00:26:41) Assessing reactive balance in clinical settings(00:29:02) Understanding patient concerns and fear of falling(00:33:04) Interventions for improving reactive balance(00:35:24) Creative approaches to reactive balance training(00:38:44) Key takeaways for clinicians(00:40:34) Case studies and clinical insights(00:42:31) Research and future directions in balance trainingResources Mentioned in EpisodeAcademy of Neurologic Physical Therapy (ANPT) podcast episode that discusses the CAFFE Scale: DD SIG Episode 53: JNPT highlight: Concern About Falling and Fear of Falling in MS with Taylor TaklaBalance AssessmentsMini-BESTestPush and ReleaseABC ScaleFES-ICAFFE ScaleNeuro Navigators is brought to you by Medbridge. If you’d like to earn continuing education credit for listening to this episode and access bonus takeaway handouts, log in to your Medbridge account and navigate to the course where you’ll find accreditation details. If applicable, complete the post-course assessment and survey to be eligible for credit. The takeaway handout on Medbridge gives you the key points mentioned in this episode, along with additional resources you can implement into your practice right away.To hear more episodes of Neuro Naviagators, visit https://www.medbridge.com/neuro-navigatorsIf you’d like to subscribe to Medbridge, visit https://www.medbridge.com/pricing/IG: https://www.instagram.com/medbridgeteam/

Jun 13, 2025 • 48min
Neuro Navigators Episode 16: Is AI the Key to Smarter OT, PT, and SLP Rehab?
Sarah Brzeszkiewicz, MS, OTR/L, an expert at the intersection of rehab therapy and health tech, joins us on this episode of Neuro Navigators to demystify the evolving role of artificial intelligence (AI) in therapy. With host J.J. Mowder-Tiney, she unpacks what AI really means for rehab professionals today—and what it doesn’t. Together, we explore emerging research, practical use cases, and everyday clinical scenarios that show how AI can enhance care rather than replace therapy practitioners. If you're curious about how to bring AI into your workflow to enhance your clinical edge, this conversation is for you.Learning ObjectivesAnalyze the current evidence on the use of AI in rehabilitation practiceApply evidence-based, practical strategies to actionably address the role of AI in the therapeutic processSolve patient case scenarios to explore practical applications of AI in everyday practiceTimestamps(00:00:00) Welcome(00:00:47) Introduction to AI in rehabilitation(00:02:54) The importance of AI in clinical practice(00:06:06) Research insights on AI in healthcare(00:08:58) AI solutions for clinicians(00:11:52) Enhancing assessment and treatment planning with AI(00:14:51) AI in remote monitoring and patient care(00:17:53) Predictive analytics and future of AI in rehab(00:22:37) Innovative tools for therapy interventions(00:26:09) AI in rehabilitation: enhancing engagement and outcomes(00:30:52) Expanding the scope: cognitive and vision rehabilitation(00:34:11) Actionable insights for clinicians(00:37:58) Real-world applications: case examples in therapy(00:44:19) Creative adaptations in therapyNeuro Navigators is brought to you by Medbridge. If you’d like to earn continuing education credit for listening to this episode and access bonus takeaway handouts, log in to your Medbridge account and navigate to the course where you’ll find accreditation details. If applicable, complete the post-course assessment and survey to be eligible for credit. The takeaway handout on Medbridge gives you the key points mentioned in this episode, along with additional resources you can implement into your practice right away.To hear more episodes of Neuro Naviagators, visit https://www.medbridge.com/neuro-navigatorsIf you’d like to subscribe to Medbridge, visit https://www.medbridge.com/pricing/IG: https://www.instagram.com/medbridgeteam/


